Coach Jose Riveiro’s Orlando Pirates are chasing a double over their old nemesis, Kaizer Chiefs whom they meet at the iconic FNB Stadium on Saturday.
Orlando Pirates vs Kaizer Chiefs Match
Pirates host this titanic clash chasing the full six points this weekend after winning the first round encounter via a 1-0 score margin.
The Buccaneers are also looking to return to winning ways in front of their fans but they face a motivated Chiefs. Coach Cavin Johnson and his troops are looking to make amends after their embarrassing Nedbank Cup exit.
Orlando Pirates vs Kaizer Chiefs: Match Details
Date: March 09, 2024
Time: 3:30 PM SAST
Venue: FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
Orlando Pirates: The Buccaneers eyeing maximum points over Chiefs
While Pirates are through to the next round of the Nedbank Cup and looking to defend it, they failed to win their recent league clash. The Sea Robbers were held by PSL returnees, Cape Town Spurs at Orlando Stadium.
Riveiro and his troops were gunning for maximum points after beating Crystal Lake 6-0, and downing Polokwane City but failed to bag a third victory in all competition on Wednesday night.
Looking at the previous DStv Premiership clash against Amakhosi, Evidence Makgopa was on target as they claimed a win late last year.
Chiefs: Amakhosi out to maintain winning run
Under the guidance of Johnson, Amakhosi have one mission, to claim another victory and continue winning their matches. They are fresh from a 1-0 victory over Golden Arrows in their midweek league clash.
Before registering a win, the sixth-placed Chiefs were embarrassingly booted out of the Nedbank Cup and also drew 0-0 against neighbours, Moroka Swallows.
Separated by a single point from the fifth-placed Pirates, the Naturena-based Chiefs are also out to avenge the 1-0 loss they suffered against Pirates in the first round.
Key Battles to Watch: Orlando Pirates vs Kaizer Chiefs
Keagan Dolly vs Thabiso Monyane:
Dolly represented Chiefs at the press conference and said they aim to upset their rivals. Dolly is slowly returning to his best form and his crosses and ability to strike set pieces will be key for Chiefs. On the other hand, Monyane is cementing his place at Pirates as one of the most trusted right-backs. The speedy defender will be forced to remain and not push forward as Dolly will look to exploit the space. There’s no doubt this will be an interesting battle between the two.
Given Msimango vs Tshegofatso Mabasa:
Msimango is regarded as one of the cleanliest defenders in the South African top flight and he will look to prove his worth in the derby. The Chiefs centre-back faces a tough task against a lethal Pirates strikeforce which boasts Mabasa and Evidence Makgopa. Meanwhile, Mabasa will hope to revive his goalscoring prowess on such a big occasion. Mabasa was loaned out to Swallows at the start of the season and his eye for goals convinced Riveiro to recall him.
Jose Riveiro vs Cavin Johnson:
Riveiro seems to be a lucky charm for Pirates when it comes to the derby and his tactical planning seems to work. While he lambasted the lack of sharpness in front of goal against Spurs, he promised to motivate his troops to bring their scoring boots to the Calabash. In addition, Johnson is gunning for his maiden win in the derby and will also look to produce magic come match day.
Orlando Pirates vs Kaizer Chiefs Head-to-Head
Judging the previous meetings when it comes to head-to-head record, out of the most recent 24 meetings between the two sides, Pirates have won eight times and Chiefs have an upper hand with nine. Meanwhile, seven fixtures ended in a draw.
Here’s a look at their recent history:
- Last 5 Matches:
- Orlando Pirates Wins: 1
- Draws: 0
- Kaizer Chiefs Wins: 4
- Total Goals (Last 5 Matches):
- Orlando Pirates: 3
- Kaizer Chiefs: 5
- Biggest Orlando Pirates Win: 1-0
- Biggest Kaizer Chiefs: 2-1
Fan Sentiments
Many fans will look at the previous or recent matches ahead of this gruelling encounter but it will not count. Chiefs are in high spirits from a midweek win while the hosts drew, but this clash is usually tough to predict. As they say, the previous form or result doesn’t count in a derby.
Prediction
Based on Chiefs’ hunger and willingness to restore the club’s pride, Amakhosi are the favourites to secure a win at the 2010 FIFA World Cup hosting venue.
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